The forecast calls for new snow and wind, which will increase avalanche danger through the day on Monday.
Confidence
Moderate - Forecast snowfall amounts are uncertain on Monday
Weather Forecast
SUNDAY Night: Mainly cloudy with isolated flurries / light to moderate south wind / alpine temperature -8 CMONDAY: Flurries,10-15 cm during the day and another 5-10 cm overnight / moderate to strong southwest wind / alpine temperature -8 CTUESDAY: A mix of sun and cloud with isolated flurries / light to moderate west wind / alpine temperature -7 C / freezing level 1000 m WEDNESDAY: Cloudy with sunny periods / light to moderate west wind / alpine temperature -7 C / freezing level 1100 m
Avalanche Summary
Expect the likelihood of triggering storm and wind slab avalanches to increase as new snow accumulates on Monday. On Friday, there were reports of natural and human triggered loose dry avalanches size 1-1.5.
Snowpack Summary
10-20 cm of recent snow sits mainly on wind slabs and facets (sugary snow), as well as surface hoar (feathery crystals) in sheltered areas and a crust on sun exposed slopes. At lower elevations, a weak layer buried in mid January can be found approximately 50-60 cm deep. This layer consists of surface hoar and facets, and may be combined with a crust on south facing slopes. This layer has been most reactive at treeline and below. Avalanche activity on this layer has dropped off significantly, however it may still be possible to trigger avalanches on this layer in areas such as steep cutblocks, and large open glades in the trees.The lower snowpack is generally considered to be strong, except for shallow, rocky areas where cold temperatures continue to facet (weaken) the snowpack.
Problems
Storm Slabs
Storm Slab avalanches are the release of a cohesive layer (a slab) of new snow that breaks within new snow or on the old snow surface. Storm-slabs typically last between a few hours and few days (following snowfall). Storm-slabs that form over a persistent weak layer (surface hoar, depth hoar, or near-surface facets) may be termed Persistent Slabs or may develop into Persistent Slabs.